NEW ORLEANS, LA - Today, District E City Councilmember Oliver M. Thomas Jr. issued the following statement:

“My thoughts and prayers are with the residents of the Gentilly Ridge Apartments who were impacted by this morning’s devastating five-alarm fire. I am deeply grateful to the New Orleans Fire Department, New Orleans EMS, the American Red Cross, the Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, the Office of Homeless Services & Strategy, and all of our first responders for their swift and courageous actions to save lives and prevent further tragedy.

My staff and I have been on-site all day. Right now, our priority is making sure every displaced resident has a safe place to go, food to eat, and the resources they need in the days ahead. To those affected, you are not alone. Our office is committed to supporting you through this difficult time and helping coordinate assistance as recovery begins.

To everyone driving through New Orleans East, please stay clear of Chef Menteur Highway while crews finish putting out hot spots. And please, keep these families and our firefighters in your prayers.”